The Alabama Crimson Tide’s backfield has been producing running backs. They not only ruled Saturdays but also left lasting impressions on Sundays. From Heisman heroes to record-breaking juggernauts, these players have led the Tide to victory.
Let’s take a wild ride down the scarlet-clad hallways of history and count down the top 10 running backs in Alabama’s history.
Alabama’s 10 Greatest RBs of All-Time
10. Najee Harris (2017-2020)
Najee Harris departed Alabama as the school’s all-time rushing yards leader (3,843) and all-time total touchdowns leader (57). In his 2020 senior season alone, he ran for 1,466 yards. He also made a country-high 26 rushing touchdowns. The star athlete led the Tide to win another national championship.
“Najee’s work ethic, attitude and commitment to team success made him one of the greats,” former Alabama coach Nick Saban said.
9. Major Ogilvie (1977-1980)
Major Ogilvie was a player whose name everyone remembered. Because he was a stalwart of Alabama’s offense during a dominant era. During his college career, Ogilvie rushed for 1,718 yards and 25 touchdowns. His versatility in the wishbone formation helped bring about national championships in 1978 and 1979.
Ogilvie’s leadership was a favorite among the fans and a key to the Tide’s rich tradition.
8. Sherman Williams (1991-1994)
Sherman Williams added quickness to the Crimson Tide backfield. He served as a key contributor to Alabama’s 1992 national championship season. He got more than 2,000 rushing yards on his resume during his time in Tuscaloosa. Williams’ ability to go through defenders was nothing less than hypnotic.
His efforts not only charged up fans but also cemented his status among Alabama’s great rushers.
7. Eddie Lacy (2010-2012)
Eddie Lacy, with his bruising style of running and signature spin, was a workhorse. Lacy accumulated 2,359 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns in his three years. His 2012 season was absolutely phenomenal. He led the Tide to a national title and garnered MVP award recognition in the SEC Championship as well as BCS National Championship games.
6. T.J. Yeldon (2012-2014)
T.J. Yeldon’s combination of vision and speed had him as a threat every snap in Alabama’s backfield. He has 3,322 career rushing yards on his resume. Yeldon stands among the program’s best running backs. Clutch performances throughout his career demonstrated his under-pressure ability to perform.
They include one game-winning touchdown against LSU during the 2012 season.
5. Johnny Musso (1969-1971)
Nicknamed the “Italian Stallion,” Johnny Musso was Alabama’s offense’s heartbeat. It was during the early ’70s that he took the fan’s heartbeat too. With 2,741 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns, Musso was the SEC’s top rusher in 1970 and 1971. His toughness and leadership played a critical role as Coach Bear Bryant shifted to the wishbone offense.
4. Bobby Humphrey (1985-1988)
Bobby Humphrey’s sudden quickness was a defense’s worst nightmare. He held a school record at the time of 3,420 rushing yards. Humphrey’s 1986 campaign was especially impressive, as he gained 1,471 yards. A senior year shortened by an injury couldn’t take away from his status as one of Alabama’s all-time greats.
3. Trent Richardson (2009-2011)
Trent Richardson inherited the baton from his forebears and ran into the record books. His season in 2011 was nothing less than spectacular. The footballer rushed for 1,679 yards and 21 touchdowns, coming in third in Heisman voting.
Richardson’s mix of strength and quickness was summed up in a staggering run against Ole Miss, leaving defenders clutching at thin air.
2. Shaun Alexander (1996-1999)
Shaun Alexander’s time at Alabama was characterized by record-breaking runs and regular brilliance. He broke several school records, such as a single-game rushing total of 291 yards versus LSU in 1996. If that wasn’t enough, Alexander also accumulated 3,565 rushing yards and 41 touchdowns.
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1. Derrick Henry (2013-2015)
Standing tall at 6’3″ and 247 pounds, Derrick Henry was a giant in the backfield. His 2015 campaign broke records: an SEC-record 2,219 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns, winning him the Heisman Trophy.
According to the fans, Henry’s endurance was the stuff of legend. He tired out defenses by the fourth quarter, and his play was instrumental in helping Alabama win a national championship.
The legacy of Alabama is linked to its rich past of great running backs. These ten players not only broke records but also set the bar high.
With each handoff, Alabama remains true to its legacy because when you’re running with the Tide, you’re running with history.
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